In this comprehensive blog, we dive into the latest SEO news and updates from February 2024, covering key developments across Google Search, Google Ads, and Bing. From the launch of Google Gemini's image generation feature to the removal of the cache link button, this article keeps you informed on the ever-evolving world of search engine optimization.
Table of Contents
Google BARD or Gemini Launches Image Generation Feature 🚀
Google BARD, now known as Gemini, introduced a new feature on 1st February, allowing users to generate images within chat conversations. Similar to other platforms like ChatGPT and Bing Chat, this functionality enables users to seamlessly share images while chatting.
Google Releases Updated SEO Starter Guide
On February 2nd, Google launched an updated version of its SEO Starter Guide. Initially released in 2008 as a 22-page PDF document, the new version features revised content, including the removal of certain sections such as Structured Data and Schema Data. Google has also condensed and simplified language in the guide, aiming to provide essential information for beginners in the SEO field. While some sections have been removed or made smaller, Google has included additional details on topics like Duplicate Content Issues and Video SEO. Despite the guide being tailored for newcomers, it can still serve as a valuable resource for experienced SEO professionals. However, the removal of some content has sparked debate as to whether Google should have retained and expanded on these topics to provide a more comprehensive guide.
Content Changes
Removed sections such as Structured Data, Schema Data, Glossary, Mobile Friendliness, Breadcrumb and 404 Issue, and Site Performance Analysis
Inclusion of additional details on Duplicate Content Issues and Video SEO
Impact on Newcomers
The removal of certain sections from the guide has raised concerns about potentially limiting the accessibility of essential SEO knowledge for newcomers to the field. Moreover, the simplified language and condensed content may not fully address the needs of individuals looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of SEO.
Yandex Search Engine Up for Sale
On February 5th, it was reported that the prominent Russian search engine, Yandex, is being sold by its parent company, Yandex NV. The sale comes as a result of challenges faced by Yandex Envy, the Dutch company overseeing the search engine's operations in Russia. In the wake of Russia's conflict with Ukraine and subsequent sanctions, Yandex Envy experienced significant financial difficulties, leading to the sale of its assets for 5.2 billion dollars to a group of buyers.
Regulatory Impact
Russia's new regulation dictates that companies from adversarial nations selling assets to Russia must provide a mandatory discount of at least 50% on the company's valuation.
Yandex Envy, being a Dutch company and part of the European Union, faced the brunt of the regulation, resulting in a 50% discount for the buyers of Yandex Search Engine.
Implications of the Sale
The sale of Yandex Search Engine not only signifies the financial challenges faced by the parent company but also sheds light on the broader impact of geopolitical tensions on the business landscape. The significant discount mandated by regulatory measures raises questions about the future ownership and operations of the search engine, prompting potential buyers to consider the implications before making a purchase.
Google Renames BARD to Gemini 🌟
On 8th February, Google rebranded its BARD to Gemini, a powerful language model that drives BARD chats. Previously, BARD utilized the Lambda language model, which later evolved into Palm 2. The updated Gemini model now powers Google's chatbot, offering enhanced functionality for users. With Gemini's launch, users can access the Gemini app on Android and seamlessly switch between chat and search within the Google app. Notably, there are two versions of Gemini available: a free version and an advanced version, Gemini Pro, catering to diverse user needs.
Google Removes Web Stories from Image and Discover Carousels 🚫
Google made a significant update on 8th February by removing Web Stories from both Google Images and Google Discover carousels. Consequently, Web Stories will now only appear in a carousel format within Google Search, discontinuing the grid-like display in other platforms. This move signals Google's effort to address concerns related to low-quality content and content theft, as some publishers have misused Web Stories to distribute subpar content and even engage in content theft for monetary gain. This change reflects Google's commitment to improving content quality and combatting unethical practices within the Web Stories ecosystem.
Google Analytics Adds 8 New Dimensions 📊
On 8th February, Google Analytics introduced 8 new dimensions to enhance report customization. These dimensions offer the flexibility to modify reports and make informed decisions based on the data. If you're unfamiliar with these dimensions or their application within Google Analytics, delving into a comprehensive guide can provide valuable insights. By leveraging these new dimensions, businesses can gain a deeper understanding of their website performance and user behavior, ultimately optimizing their digital strategies for better outcomes.
Google Analytics Introduces Trend Change Detection Card 📈
Google Analytics unveiled a new "Trend Change Detection" card on the dashboard on February 13th. This card complements the existing "Anomaly Detection" card by identifying gradual changes in website metrics over time. Unlike the sudden shifts detected by the Anomaly Detection card, the Trend Change Detection card focuses on recognizing significant and sustained changes in metrics. This feature empowers users to analyze and understand the underlying reasons for gradual shifts in website performance, facilitating proactive decision-making and strategy adjustments.
YouTube Announces New Creator and Viewer Features 📺
YouTube rolled out three new features on 13th February, catering to both creators and viewers. Creators can now tag products in live streams, enabling them to suggest products directly to their audience during the stream. Additionally, the YouTube app introduced a "View All Posts" tab in the community section, allowing users to access posts from the accounts they follow. Furthermore, the YouTube Studio smartphone app now supports direct uploads of videos and photos, simplifying the content creation process for creators.
Google Ads Updates Misrepresentation Policy 🛑
On February 18th, Google Ads implemented an important update to its Misrepresentation Policy. The new rule stipulates that any ad or landing page claiming a collaboration or endorsement with a notable personality or brand, or implying celebrity recommendation of a name, brand, or product, may lead to account suspension. This change underscores Google Ads' commitment to maintaining the integrity of advertising content and preventing misleading representations within its platform.
Google Merchant Center Requires Retention of AI Image Metadata ⚠️
On February 19th, Google Merchant Center announced a crucial update regarding the usage of AI-generated images. If AI images are utilized in a user's account, it is imperative not to delete the AI-generated tags and metadata associated with the image. This requirement is in place to ensure transparency and prevent deceptive practices. By retaining the AI-generated tags and metadata, users assist Google in verifying the authenticity of the images. Furthermore, when using images for advertising purposes, it is essential to refrain from presenting AI-generated images as original. Attempting to deceive Google by removing any indicators of AI generation can result in account suspension. Therefore, it is vital to adhere to Google's guidelines and maintain the integrity of image representation in all promotional materials and landing pages.
Google Upgrades Product Type Schema Data 🔄
On February 20th, Google implemented significant upgrades to the product type schema data, reflecting the platform's continued utilization of this data for enhanced functionality. Over the past year, Google has increasingly relied on product type schema data to automatically display products in the Merchant Center, providing users with valuable insights and facilitating improved visibility. Notably, the schema data now encompasses three new features, including "Has Parent," which indicates the availability of various product versions, "Varies By," and "Product Group ID." These enhancements emphasize Google's commitment to optimizing the display and categorization of products, ultimately enhancing the user experience and the effectiveness of product listings.
Google and Reddit Enter Data Sharing Partnership 🤝
Google and Reddit have recently formed a data sharing partnership, with Google reportedly paying Reddit $60 million annually for access to its data. This agreement allows Google to utilize Reddit's data for AI training purposes, enabling the enhancement of its AI models. While Google benefits from this collaboration, it has sparked concerns within the SEO community regarding potential preferential treatment of Reddit's pages in search rankings. Despite the controversy, this partnership underscores the significance of user-focused and valuable content, potentially influencing the future direction of content creation and search ranking strategies.
Google Adds AI Features to Performance Max Ads 🌐
Google introduced AI-powered features to its Performance Max ads on February 22nd, bringing significant advancements to ad campaign management and optimization. The incorporation of AI capabilities in Performance Max ads encompasses several impactful enhancements, including worldwide AI asset generation, real-time analysis through the Ad Strength feature, integration with Canva for streamlined design connectivity, and the amplification of campaign effectiveness through video integration. These additions showcase Google's commitment to empowering advertisers with advanced AI-driven tools for maximizing ad performance and user engagement.
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